Ideas for a Map on a Wall

Framed

One of the easiest ways to add a map to your wall is to hang a framed print. You can find a variety of maps, from those that encompass the entire world to those that focus on your particular state. You may also opt for a vintage map to give your room an old-world feel. Because you want your map to stand out, take care when selecting your frame. Choose a simple material such as plain wood or metal. If you plan to use a mat beneath your map, go with a neutral color such as white or beige. However, if you prefer a more colorful look, opt for frame in a shade represented in your map.

If you are artistic, painting your own map mural can be a fun, decorative project. Find an image of a map that you like and make a copy of it so you can create a transparency. Use an overhead projector to project your map image onto the wall. If you do not want to purchase a projector for a single project, rent one from an office supply store. While projecting the map on the wall, adjust the size if necessary and begin tracing it onto the surface with a pencil. Follow with paint to color in the map according to the image or your own preferences. Acrylic paint is an effective option, though you may use an interior latex formula if your map covers a large area of your wall.

For a truly fun look, consider using a map to wallpaper your wall. You can purchase pre-made wallpaper that features maps for easy application, but if you cannot find a pattern that you like, make your own. You can use a map in any form as long as the paper on which it is printed is fairly thick. Options include road maps, pages from an atlas or wrapping paper. Tear the map into strips and use a mixture of water and white glue to adhere it to the wall, adding enough glue to the mixture that it remains thick. Another option for adhering the map to the wall is clear wallpaper paste. If the project seems too labor intensive for an entire room, consider using it on an accent wall or inside a closet for an unexpected look.

Another simple way to decorate your wall with a map is to use peel-and-stick vinyl wall decals. These decals come in a variety of shapes and images, including maps. They are extremely easy to apply because you simply peel off the backing and smooth them onto the wall wherever you like. While similar to wallpaper, they are individual images and you simply peel them off when you want to change the room's look. You can find wall decals that feature entire maps or that depict individual continents and states, so you can create the ideal look for your room.